Spain Approves Morocco’s Gas Import Plan via Maghreb-Europe Pipeline

"Spain has responded favorably to Morocco’s request for support to guarantee its energy security. Thus, Morocco will be able, in full transparency, to acquire liquefied natural gas (LNG) on international markets, transform it in a regasification plant in Spain and transport it to its territory via the Maghreb pipeline," recalls La Razón, citing the statement made in early February by the Moroccan Minister of Energy Transition, Leila Benali.

Read: Morocco Accuses Algeria of Obstructing Spain Gas Deal Amid Regional Tensions

The decision of the Spanish authorities has angered Algeria which tried to block this agreement, arguing that Spain is not authorized to sell Algerian gas to Morocco. Except that the gas that Morocco wants to import via the GME will be acquired on international markets. After this political blockage, Morocco and Spain will finally be able to implement their agreement. "The transport of gas from Spain to Morocco requires minor technical adaptation. In addition, Enagas and its Moroccan counterpart will have to establish the technical operating rules of the gas pipeline," the Spanish authorities assured.

Read: Algeria Warns Spain Against Gas Re-exports to Morocco Amid Supply Tensions

With this gas import via the GME, Morocco will be able to restart its Tahaddart (Tangier) and Ain Beni Mathar (Oujda) power plants, which cover about 10% of Morocco’s energy production. But beyond the economic advantage, this agreement between Morocco and Spain could have positive effects on the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries and facilitate the return to his post of the Moroccan ambassador in Madrid.